Population and income growth are leading to an increasing demand for animal proteins. However, there are concerns related to the world’s capacity to meet that growing demand, as well as to the environmental and health effects of diets high in animal proteins. These factors have spurred interest in alternative protein sources such as plant-based, insect and cultured (or lab-grown) proteins. Each of these protein sources presents unique benefits, challenges and policy implications for Canada.
Animal proteins are derived from livestock farming, aquaculture, fishing, hunting and trapping activities. Animal protein production, particularly large-scale livestock farming, is associated with environmental harms such as greenhouse gas emissions and unsustainable freshwater usage. Moreover, high consumption of animal proteins, particularly red and processed meats, is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. However, by using pastureland to store carbon, responsible livestock farming can contribute to environmental sustainability. Also, fishing, hunting and trapping are culturally significant activities, particularly among many Indigenous peoples.
Plant proteins include legumes, nuts, seeds and meat substitutes like tofu. Plant proteins are generally more environmentally sustainable than animal proteins, with lower demands on land, water and energy use, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. While a balanced plant-based diet can help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain plant-based diets may lead to nutrient deficiencies.
Insects such as crickets and beetles are high in protein and make for an environmentally efficient food source, requiring fewer resources to produce than animal farming. However, there are concerns regarding their safety for human consumption, particularly related to allergies, and they face low levels of consumer acceptance.
Cultured proteins are produced from animal cells in labs. Cultured protein production could lead to reduced environmental impacts compared to conventional farming. They also offer the potential for increased food security: because cultured proteins are produced in labs, they are not subject to the climate variations that often influence animal and plant protein production. However, the energy required to produce cultured proteins is relatively high, and they face challenges related to consumer acceptability.
To feed a growing population in need of protein, governments, private companies and other industry stakeholders are looking to a variety of sources. Changing the proportion of different protein sources in the diets of Canadians, whether due to environmental concerns, changing demand, health concerns or other factors, will likely have policy implications related to public health, climate change, employment, and research and development.
Read the full text of the HillStudy: Expanding Protein Options: Emerging Science and Policy Implications
By Kelsey Brennan, Library of Parliament